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76
WILLIAM TELL
the half of my possessions, but spare my son-in-law.”
But Walter Tell broke in impatiently, and bade his grandfather rise, and not kneel to the tyrant.
“Where must I stand?” asked he. “I'm not afraid. Father can hit a bird upon the wing."
“You see that lime-tree yonder," said Gessler to his soldiers; “take the boy and bind him to it.”
“I will not be bound!” cried Walter. “I am not afraid. I’ll stand still. I won't breathe. If you bind me I’ll kick!"
“Let us bind your eyes, at least,” said Rudolph der Harras.
“Do you think I fear to see father shoot?” said Walter. “I won’t stir an eyelash. Father, show the tyrant how you can shoot. He thinks you’re going to miss. Isn't he an old donkey!"
